Problems of ensuring the effectiveness of social work with convicts serving sentences in institutions of the penitentiary system of Russia

The article elucidates the challenges associated with ensuring the effectiveness of social work with convicts serving sentences in institutions of the penitentiary system of Russia. The author presents the results of an original study that reveals the limiting factors affecting the efficacy of social work with incarcerated individuals, particularly from the perspective of the organizational problems and trends. It is emphasized that the dominance of approaches focused on the intensification of regulations governing the treatment of convicts reflects the growing influence of security measures, while simultaneously neglecting the necessity for the development of rehabilitation programs. These approaches often encompass the reinforcement of regime restrictions and limitations on access to educational and vocational initiatives, which contributes to a deterioration in the living conditions and social isolation of inmates. The work includes findings from a series of expert interviews conducted with 26 specialists, including representatives of the Federal Penitentiary Service, attorneys, and investigators.